I got to have lunch with an old friend today to celebrate her birthday. I did the math and realized that we’ve been friends for 35 years! When I was filling out her card, the words “a friendship that sparkles and sustains” came to mind. Is that a funny way to describe friendship? Maybe. But somehow it fits.
My go-to gift at the moment is a little cellophane bag filled with homemade ginger soak, dark chocolate, and a candle. Just about everyone I know is busy and needs to relax. And this combination does the trick.
I know this for a fact because I tried it out on myself. I poured the ginger soak into a hot bath, lit a candle, climbed in, and then ate dark chocolate while reading the latest issue of People magazine. When I got out of the tub, I was so relaxed that I was completely useless for two hours.
So I guess the ginger soak should come with a warning: Do not use unless you can get away with doing absolutely nothing for as long as possible afterward.
This gift is wonderfully customizable. If I were making one for Tim, I’d include a bottle of Guinness, milk chocolate with hazelnuts, and Scientific American.
2 tablespoons dried ginger
Mix together and pour into a Mason jar, a cellophane bag, or any container you like. You can attach a tag with instructions: Pour into a warm bath and soak for 20 to 30 minutes.
* If you think you might make large quantities of the ginger soak, you might want to check out the San Francisco Salt Company for the Epsom salts (I got a great deal with free shipping before Christmas) and your local Costco-type place for the baking soda. I spent about $7 for a good-sized bag.
I really do recommend trying this out for yourself first―enjoy!
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